Wheel Alignment & everything you need to know about it!

 What is Wheel Alignment?

Steering and suspension angles are the two factors that have the greatest impact on the health of your tyres and the handling of your vehicle. These are the issues that a wheel alignment addresses.

You need to measure, analyse, and adjust your car’s steering and suspension angles during a wheel alignment. You would want two things: wheels that are parallel to each other and perpendicular (at a 90-degree angle) to the ground. This is accomplished by adjusting the caster, camber, and toe.

What causes misalignment?

The most common causes of misalignment, aside from general wear and tear, are road conditions and driving habits. When your tyres collide with something, they are pushed out of alignment. Potholes and curbs are the main culprits.

High-performance vehicles are more prone to misalignment. The lightweight suspension components contribute significantly to their superior handling. However, because these suspension components are lightweight, they are easily knocked out of alignment.

Benefits of Wheel Alignment?

1) Improved fuel efficiency. Everything your car does contributes to the wheels spinning. Any misalignment, no matter how minor, makes it more difficult for the engine to accomplish this. The more energy an engine expends to turn the wheels, the more fuel it consumes. Misalignment can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 10%, which is especially significant given the current price at the pump.

2) Avoid costly repairs. Misaligned wheels degrade tyres and other components. Keeping your wheels at the proper angles puts your steering and suspension under the least amount of strain, promoting their health and extending their life.

3) It’s secure. We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: tyres are the most important safety feature. Tyres that are damaged in any way reduce your ability to accelerate, brake, or steer with control and purpose. Misaligned wheels lead to compromised tyres, which wear out faster and do not provide adequate traction on the road’s surface.

4) Enjoy the ride. Wheel alignments are all about ensuring proper steering and suspension. Without proper alignment, the vehicle may pull in certain directions, vibrate harshly, or make strange sounds. In other words, it can make for a bumpy and dangerous ride. If you don’t get regular wheel alignments on your high-performance vehicle, you’re not only depriving yourself of a smooth ride, but you’re also causing serious damage to vital components.

When do you need to go for a wheel alignment?

  • It has been more than 12 months since your last alignment
  • Your car constantly pulls to one side
  • The steering wheel isn’t centred
  • The steering feels loose
  • You’ve noticed uneven or patchy tyre wear
  • You’ve heard squeaking or rubbing noises

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